Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc (R) receives Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallström in Hà Nội yesterday. — VNA/VNS Photo Thống Nhất

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam and Sweden should expand co-operation in various realms including education-training, science-technology, green technology, smart urban development and support industry.

Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc made the suggestion during his reception for Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallström in Hà Nội yesterday. 

Hailing Swedish enterprises in Việt Nam like Ericsson, ABB and Electrolux, Phúc said Việt Nam has prioritised electronics, automobile spare part manufacturing, and food and beverage processing. 

Therefore, Việt Nam welcomes the upcoming visit by a delegation of leading Swedish enterprises to Việt Nam to scope out opportunities in these fields, the leader stressed. 

He commented on the growth of bilateral trade, which stood at $1 billion in the first ten months of this year, urging agencies of both countries to create favourable conditions for their businesses to step up ties in order to soon double the figure. 

The PM also called on Sweden to encourage the EU to soon sign and ratify the Việt Nam-EU Free Trade Agreement to facilitate trade links between Việt Nam and Sweden. 

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2019, Phúc asked the two countries’ foreign ministries to work together to hold visits and cultural, tourism and trade and investment promotion activities. 

Việt Nam treasures the long-standing relationship and multi-faceted co-operation with Sweden, he affirmed. 

In reply, Wallström said Sweden wished to be good friend and a trustworthy partner of Việt Nam, appealing to the two countries to intensify their comprehensive co-operation. 

Recognising Việt Nam’s outstanding development, the minister said Swedish firms hoped Việt Nam would maintain its growth to make it easier for them to invest. 

She congratulated Việt Nam on successfully hosting the APEC Year 2017, hailing the country’s support for trade liberalisation. 

The minister also consoled Viet Nam over losses caused by natural disasters and climate change, saying Sweden wished to co-operate with the country in this sphere. — VNS